About Steve Wayne

Steve Wayne Sumner practices criminal law in Greenville, South Carolina. He has been a defense lawyer since 1995 and has experience in DUI and DWI cases. His firm focuses on representing clients facing serious charges, to protect their rights throughout the legal process. Sumner's office is located in the heart of Greenville, making it accessible for clients across the region. He earned his J.D. from the University of South Carolina in 1992.

That same year, he began his career as a state DUI prosecutor, gaining valuable insights into the prosecution's perspective. This experience has proven beneficial in his defense work — This lets the attorney anticipate strategies used by opposing counsel. Since transitioning to defense work, he is known for thorough case preparation and effective courtroom representation. Most of his caseload involves defending clients against DUI charges, but he also handles a variety of criminal cases. Cases typically range from minor offenses to serious felonies. Sumner understands the details of the legal system and navigates the various stages of criminal proceedings with expertise.

He is experienced in pre-trial motions, plea negotiations, and trial advocacy. Before becoming a defense attorney, he served as an Assistant Investigator for the Disciplinary Counsel in 2003. This role provided him with a unique perspective on legal ethics and professional responsibility. His understanding of the disciplinary process enhances his ability to advise clients on maintaining compliance with legal standards while pursuing their cases. Sumner is an active member of several professional organizations, including the National College for DUI Defense and the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He is also affiliated with the American Bar Association's Criminal Justice Section and the South Carolina Trial Lawyers Association.

His memberships reflect his commitment to staying informed about the latest developments in criminal law and DUI defense. In addition to his legal practice, he is involved in local legal communities, including the Greenville Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His engagement with these organizations allows him to collaborate with other legal professionals and contribute to discussions on criminal justice reform in South Carolina. Sumner's dedication to his clients and the legal profession is evident in his active participation in these associations.

Education

University of South Carolina

1992

Languages

English (Spoken)

Experience

Lawyer to Assistant Investigator Disciplinary Counsel

South Carolina Supreme Court
2003

Defense Lawyer

Upstate DUI
1995

State DUI Prosecutor

State of South Carolina
1992

Accepted Jurisdictions

South Carolina

Court Admissions

South Carolina Supreme Court State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

Criminal Law DUI & DWI

Legal Services Scope

Pre-trial motions Plea negotiations Trial advocacy

Professional Associations

National College for DUI Defense

has membership Current

National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

has membership Current

American Bar Association - Criminal Justice Section

has membership Current

South Carolina Trial Lawyers Association

has membership Current

South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

has membership Current

Greenville Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

has membership Current

South Carolina State Bar

has membership 1992 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 112 Manly Street Greenville SC 29601